DARION KNIGHT
AUTHOR | ENTREPRENEUR | OWNER of
PRAIRIE GYMNASTICS and WINDY CITY INVITATIONAL LLC
PRAIRIE GYMNASTICS and WINDY CITY INVITATIONAL LLC
"What a meaningful insight into how our past molds our future. Through resilience and perseverance Darion has become the strong, committed husband, father, and entrepreneur he is today. He strives to better himself each day so that he can make a difference in the lives of those around him." --Michelle Geihm
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ABOUT THE STORY"Did I Make You Proud" by Darion Knight offers readers a candid and captivating look into his life journey. As a black gymnast raised in the streets of Chicago, Knight's memoir unfolds with raw honesty and authenticity. In a sport largely associated with girls, Darion had to develop resilience to overcome societal stereotypes. Moreover, being a minority in a predominantly non-black sport posed additional hurdles. However, these experiences ultimately equipped him with the strength and determination necessary for success as he transitioned into the realm of entrepreneurship.
Knight's inspiring memoir serves as a testament to resilience and self-determination, showcasing how he forged his own path to success against all odds. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- |
Darion’s drive for writing the book originated from Dr. Shirley Scott, Darion Knight's mother, who persistently encouraged him to share his story. However, it wasn't until his therapist suggested that writing could serve as a therapeutic outlet that he embarked on the journey of penning his memoir. Despite facing a demanding schedule, it took Darion over a year and a half to complete the book. Along the way, he encountered a significant bout of writer's block, prompting him to enroll in an online writing class offered by a local junior college. This course proved instrumental in providing Darion with techniques and structural guidance to overcome his writing obstacles and ultimately finish the book.
***** BOOK REVIEWS *****
Darion Knight is so much more than a gymnastics coach; he is a mentor. As a former gymnast under Darion's coaching, I have truly transformed into a stronger and more confident human. He has always cared about every strep in my life, and guided me to where I am today, I wholeheartedly believe that Darion creates good humans for the world through his work. --Kaylee Tredup, Former Gymnast
Amazing Book! The author did an amazing job composing this book, the stories are captivating and flow seamlessly together. This book will demand your attention, and keep you engaged for hours! —Dr. Chancellor Foulks
In “Did I Make You Proud,” Darion Knight shares a deeply moving and inspirationally brave account of his life, tracing his path from the Southside of Chicago to becoming a successful gyn owner and mentor. This memoir stands out not just as a story of personal achievement, but as a beacon of hope and resilience, particularly resonant for those who face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. --Allania Moore-Jones, Retired Principal for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS)
Amazing Book! The author did an amazing job composing this book, the stories are captivating and flow seamlessly together. This book will demand your attention, and keep you engaged for hours! —Dr. Chancellor Foulks
In “Did I Make You Proud,” Darion Knight shares a deeply moving and inspirationally brave account of his life, tracing his path from the Southside of Chicago to becoming a successful gyn owner and mentor. This memoir stands out not just as a story of personal achievement, but as a beacon of hope and resilience, particularly resonant for those who face seemingly insurmountable obstacles. --Allania Moore-Jones, Retired Principal for the Chicago Public Schools (CPS)
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
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Darion Knight, a husband, father, entrepreneur, and newly minted author, owns Prairie Gymnastics Club in Batavia, IL, alongside his wife Jillian Knight. They host one of the largest gymnastics competitions in the nation, held at the iconic Navy Pier in Chicago. Their family includes a remarkable 8-year-old daughter, Olivia and is described as the epitome of an ideal child.
Darion Knight has identified two distinct target audiences for his book. Firstly, he aims to reach young black males residing in the inner cities across the country, particularly those who may feel constrained by their environment and doubt their potential for achievement. By sharing his story, Darion hopes to instill in them the belief that life extends beyond the confines of their neighborhoods and that they possess the ability to transcend their circumstances. |
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Darion also intends to engage readers outside of this environment, offering them insight into the challenges faced by individuals living in urban areas. He seeks to dispel misconceptions and highlight the daily struggles experienced by those in disadvantaged communities, challenging the notion that overcoming such obstacles is straightforward.
Acknowledging that his own experiences were challenging yet recognizing that others have faced even greater adversity, Darion aims for his book to serve as an inspiration for young black men aspiring to improve their circumstances. Through his narrative, he hopes to empower them with the belief that positive change is attainable. 
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As previously mentioned, Darion Knight encountered a significant bout of writer's block, struggling to generate words for his manuscript. However, as he neared the completion of his book, he faced the additional challenge of balancing his writing commitments with planning his upcoming competition at Navy Pier, leaving him with limited time to write. Despite these obstacles, the moment he finally finished the manuscript brought immense relief, allowing him to express long-held thoughts and emotions. Writing the book served as a freeing experience, providing Darion with a means to alleviate the anxiety and stress that had plagued him for an extended period.
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